Facials

Facial masks

A facial mask is a specially prepared cream containing nutrients which is applied on the face to nourish, heal and rejuvenate the outer layer of the skin. Masks range from home made masks, ready to use masks which have been manufactured using specific measurements of ingredients. They can be purchased from drug stores, online cosmetics and beauty stores.

Purposes of using facial masks

Moisturizing

Deep cleansing

Firming the skin

Hyper pigmentation

Healing of acne scars

Brightening of the skin

Illumination of skin tone gradually

Rejuvenating the skin for a smooth radiant tone

How does facial mask work?

Facial masks contain different ingredients to suit different needs. There are facial masks which are for healing acne scars, healing and storing the skin while others are for deep cleansing.

The process of application depends on the type of mask. The facial mask is applied on the face and neck and spread evenly to cover the whole area. Cover the eyes and hair appropriately id you are applying the facial mask at home. Beauty clinics have the right hair caps and eye protection.

The facial masks are made with vitamins, minerals and special extracts from fruits, cucumber and cactus. The mask does not allow the skin to breath and the nutrients are absorbed into the skin. The process of absorption takes place as the nutrients are broken down into nano parts which are a billionth of a nutrient. These are easily absorbed into the outer skin. The mask is peeled out if that is the nature of the mask or washed out with water.

Types of facial masks

Clay; thick and draws out impurities cleansing the skin

Cream; stays damp on the skin to hydrate the skin

Sheet-style; this is dampened with liquid and is used to tone and moisturize the skin

Hybrid /clay and cream; these are small beads used to remove dead cells on the skin.

Paraffin wax and warm oil to cater for dry or oily skin

How long it lasts

The process of applying a facial mask depends on the type of mask and the purpose of applying. It can take a little as 5-10 minutes or overnight depending on the mask and purpose. A DIY facial mask depends on the time the user has and the expected results.

You can choose to use facial mask twice a week or once a week depending on user’s directions on the facial mask. Facial masks used for acne scar treatment, the beautician or skin therapist advices on the next appointment. There are masks such as glycolic masks which can only be used once a month. 24K Gold mask is used only once in six months as it can burn or irritate the skin.

Benefits of using facials

Firming the skin

Moisturizing the skin

deep cleansing the skin

Healing acne scars

Nourishing the skin

Negative effects of using facial masks

Negative effects of facials depend on the choice of the facial mask and skin type. Sensitive skin need to be treated with care when choosing any type of treatment. There is a high risk of irritation or burning of the skin. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist before using strong facial mask.

Always try on the mask on a small portion of the skin to test your skin reaction. Some facial mask can cause irritation if the skin had been weakened by other factors such as sun burns.

Who is the best suited for facial masks

A facial mask is suitable for all adults of all skin types.

It is recommended to have a facial mask once a week or once a month at most for deep cleansing of the skin and refreshing the outer layer. The facial skin is open to dust, bacteria, impurities, sun and heat and needs refreshing once in a while.

People with special needs such as early onset of aging, fine lines and acne require facial treatment to cleanse, nourish and firm the skin.